The tests could tell someone they don't have an infection when in fact they actually do, health bosses warned

By Andrea Downey, Digital Health Reporter

17th October 2018, 12:01 am

Updated: 17th October 2018, 1:00 pm

THOUSANDS of HIV test kits have been seized over fears the gave the wrong results, experts said today.

The at-home kits, which can be bought online and also test for sexually transmitted infections (STI), could contribute to the spread of nasty infections through giving false results, health officials warned.

Fake tests could contribute to the spread of disease like HIV, health bosses warned

The tests were seized as part of the #FakeMeds campaign, which aims to crackdown on online sites selling fake and faulty products.

Approved testing kits will have a CE mark on them, this shows they conform with European standards for health and safety, have gone through proper and vigorous testing so are safe to use according to the instruction.

TV doctor Oscar Duke said: "It is terrifying that there are so many fake and dangerous STI test kits out there, which could cause people to unwittingly spread infections and diseases.

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Graeme Tunbridge, of the MHRA, said: "Know what you’re buying by purchasing self-test kits and other medical devices from a safe and legitimate provider.

"Look for the distance selling logo which means that the supplier is registered with the MHRA to sell medicines to the public and has been accredited as a legitimate source.

"Make sure that the test is easy to use and has clear instructions.

"Alternatively, if you are buying a medicine online look for the distance selling logo, which means that the supplier is registered with the MHRA to sell medicines to the public and has been accredited as a legitimate source."

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